New Holland Brewing begins construction on Grand Rapids, MI brewpub and distillery to open Fall 2016

New Holland Brewing begins construction on Grand Rapids, MI brewpub and distillery to open Fall 2016

October 28, 2015

New Holland Brewing Co., a longstanding Michigan brewery and craft distillery, is pleased to announce that construction is underway on the new, 40,000-square foot brewpub, distillery and restaurant, slated to open in Fall 2016 in Grand Rapids, Michigan’s West Side. The new location supports the company’s goals to reach the growing market of craft consumers in New Holland’s home of West Michigan.

New Holland’s “Knickerbocker – Brewpub and Distillery” will occupy the corner of Bridge Street and Broadway Avenue. New Holland plans to house onsite distilling capabilities – with a heavy focus on gin and botanical spirits – pub-style brewing focused on styles inspired by brewing traditions from around the world, as well as a 400+ seat restaurant with outdoor bar and beer garden. A food menu focused on mindful sourcing, scratch cooking, rustic traditions – including heirloom produce and whole animal butchery of heritage breeds – is also a top priority for this new location aiming to provide a complete craft experience. Other amenities include: a gin and whiskey cocktail bar, private rental spaces, food to go, 25+ taps, community gathering space, and a retail store.

“After 19 years in Holland, we’re really excited to expand our footprint and get more deeply involved in the social, economic, and craft beverage scene of Grand Rapids,” says New Holland President and Co-founder, Brett VanderKamp. “We’ve long considered creating a Grand Rapids location to bring the New Holland experience to more of our West Michigan fans and to the millions of travelers who visit Beer City USA. This endeavor allows us to collaborate with exciting talent in the area to create innovative beers, drinks, and food menus that you can’t get anywhere else. West Side of GR and New Holland are the perfect fit.”

New Holland is collaborating with Rockford Construction on the development and build-out and they see the New Holland project as a key partnership in bringing investment to the West Side neighborhood.

“We are thrilled to welcome New Holland to the neighborhood,” says Mike VanGessel, CEO of Rockford Construction. “Not only are they dedicated to artisanal food and craft beer and spirits, Brett and his team are creating a beautiful place that will welcome our neighbors and new visitors to gather and experience the West Side. Their commitment to community and engagement is outstanding, and we look forward to working alongside them as they bring new jobs and energy to the neighborhood.”

The affirmative Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) vote today, Oct. 27, kicks off the official construction phase of the project. Final construction plans and timelines are still in process, but the New Holland management team looks for the new venture to open in the Fall of 2016 and anticipates hiring approximately 150 new employees prior to the launch. New Holland Brewing Company and Rockford Construction will be celebrating the groundbreaking with a small private ceremony on November 11.

VanderKamp adds, “We are proud to be part of a community building project which will provide enhanced retail, office, entertainment, and living options for the residents of Grand Rapids. We’re grateful to see the MEDC support the overall project and the continued investment in the West Side.”

*** About New Holland Brewing Co.New Holland Brewing Company’s deep roots in the craft industry go back to 1997. Their role as an integral member of the artisan approach is something they take seriously, yet engage lightheartedly. They believe the art of craft lives in fostering rich experiences for their customers, through creating authentic beer, spirits and food while providing great service. Recognized for their creativity and artistry, their mission to improve the lives of craft consumers everywhere is seen in their diverse, balanced collection of beer and spirits.

New Holland Brewing begins construction on Grand Rapids, MI brewpub and distillery to open Fall 2016 was last modified: October 28th, 2015 by Joel Petersen